Diabetes Surgery in Istanbul, Turkey

Turkey has rapidly gained international recognition for offering advanced treatments for chronic diseases like type 2 diabetes. Diabetes surgery — often referred to as metabolic surgery — is performed by highly skilled surgeons in state-of-the-art facilities, providing patients from around the world with a safe, effective, and affordable solution to manage or even potentially reverse type 2 diabetes.

Thanks to modern surgical techniques, all-inclusive treatment packages, and exceptional aftercare services, Turkey stands out as one of the top destinations for individuals seeking life-changing diabetes surgery.

What is Diabetes Surgery (Metabolic Surgery)?

Diabetes surgery primarily targets the metabolic root causes of type 2 diabetes rather than just its symptoms. It involves surgical procedures that alter the digestive system to improve insulin regulation, blood sugar control, and overall metabolism.

Common types of diabetes/metabolic surgeries include:

• Gastric Bypass (Roux-en-Y): Changes the stomach and small intestine to limit food intake and reduce calorie absorption, leading to better blood sugar control.
• Mini Gastric Bypass: A simpler, quicker form of gastric bypass with excellent results for diabetes remission.
• Sleeve Gastrectomy with Duodenal Switch: Reduces stomach size and alters digestion to maximize weight loss and metabolic improvements.
• Ileal Interposition Surgery (less common but specifically designed to improve glucose metabolism without major weight loss goals).

These surgeries can lead to:

• Significant weight loss
• Major improvements or remission of type 2 diabetes
• Reduction or elimination of diabetes medications
• Better cardiovascular health

Benefits of Having Diabetes Surgery in Turkey

• Expert Surgeons: Turkish metabolic and bariatric surgeons are internationally trained and highly experienced in diabetes-specific procedures.
• Advanced Medical Facilities: Hospitals are equipped with cutting-edge surgical technology and maintain high standards of patient care and safety.
• Affordable Treatment: Diabetes surgery in Turkey is 60-70% less expensive than in the U.S., U.K., or Europe — often with no compromise on quality.
• All-Inclusive Packages: These packages typically cover consultations, full pre-operative assessments (cardiology, endocrinology, dietician), surgery, hospital stay, post-operative care, hotel accommodation, airport transfers, and follow-up services.
• Ideal Recovery Environment: Patients can enjoy peaceful recovery periods in cities like Istanbul, Izmir, and Antalya, combining healthcare with comfort.

What to Expect

• Pre-Operative Assessment: Includes a full health evaluation — blood tests, cardiac checks, endocrinological consultation, and dietary advice to ensure readiness for surgery.
• Surgery: Performed laparoscopically under general anesthesia. The duration varies depending on the type of procedure but usually lasts between 2–4 hours.
• Hospital Stay: Patients generally stay in the hospital for 2–4 days under close monitoring.
• Recovery: Initial recovery takes about 1-2 weeks. Full adjustment to new eating habits and metabolic changes occurs over several months.
• Results: Many patients experience normalization of blood sugar levels within days of surgery and significant health improvements in the months that follow.

Are You a Good Candidate?

You might be a good candidate for diabetes surgery if:

• You have type 2 diabetes that is poorly controlled with medication and lifestyle changes.
• Your BMI is over 30 (some procedures are possible at a lower BMI for uncontrolled diabetes cases).
• You are willing to make permanent changes to your diet and lifestyle.
• You are generally in good enough health to undergo surgery.

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